New Kia Electric Car EV6 Review Features and Performance Insights

The new Kia EV6 redefines electric performance with its lightning-fast 310-mile range and 800V ultra-fast charging, reaching 80% in just 18 minutes. Boasting a sleek design, cutting-edge tech, and thrilling acceleration (0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds), this all-electric crossover delivers a premium driving experience at a competitive price point.

Key Takeaways

• Impressive range: Up to 310 miles on a single charge.
• Fast charging: 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes.
• Spacious interior: Ample legroom and cargo space for comfort.
• Advanced tech: Features a 12.3-inch touchscreen and driver aids.
• Smooth performance: Instant torque delivers quick, quiet acceleration.
• Eco-friendly materials: Sustainable fabrics used in cabin construction.

First Impressions: The Kia EV6 Makes a Bold Entry

When the new Kia electric car EV6 rolled into my driveway for a week-long test drive, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’ve driven a few EVs—some flashy, some practical, and a couple that felt like they were still in beta mode. But the EV6? It felt different from the moment I unlocked it. The sleek, futuristic design, the quiet hum of the motor, and the way the ambient lighting greeted me made it clear: this wasn’t just another electric car. It felt like Kia had finally stepped into the premium EV arena with confidence, and I was here for it.

Over the next seven days, I drove the EV6 through city traffic, on a 200-mile highway trip, and even took it on a spontaneous detour to a mountain trailhead. It handled everything with ease, and I found myself genuinely excited to drive it—something I can’t say for every EV I’ve tested. But the real question was: does the Kia EV6 deliver on its promises? Is it more than just a stylish face? After living with it, I can say yes—but with a few caveats that are worth exploring.

Design and Interior: Where Form Meets Function

Exterior Design: A Glimpse into the Future

The EV6’s design is a head-turner. With its sharp lines, sloping roofline, and boomerang-shaped taillights, it looks like a concept car that somehow made it to production. The front grille is minimal—after all, it’s electric—but the “digital tiger face” gives it a distinctive, almost aggressive look. The flush door handles pop out when you approach, and the 20-inch wheels (on higher trims) fill the wheel wells perfectly.

What I loved most? The EV6 doesn’t scream “I’m an EV.” It’s sleek, modern, and stylish without being gimmicky. It blends in with luxury cars like the Audi e-tron and Polestar 2, but stands out in a way that feels intentional. The color options (like the striking Yacht Blue I tested) only add to its appeal.

Interior Quality: A Step Up in Comfort

Inside, the EV6 feels like a premium car. The materials are high-quality—soft-touch plastics, vegan leather (Kia calls it “Eco Processed Leather”), and sustainable textiles. The dashboard is clean and uncluttered, with a dual 12.3-inch curved display dominating the center. It’s a design choice that works: the screens are bright, responsive, and feel like they belong in a luxury vehicle.

The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long drives. I took a friend on a 150-mile round trip, and they didn’t complain once—a win in my book. The rear seats are surprisingly spacious, with enough legroom for taller passengers (I’m 5’10”, and my knees weren’t brushing the front seats). The panoramic sunroof (on higher trims) adds to the airy, open feel.

Storage and Practicality: Thoughtful Touches

The EV6 shines when it comes to practicality. The front trunk (frunk) is small but useful for charging cables or small bags. The rear cargo space is generous—520 liters with the seats up, and it expands to 1,300 liters when folded. The load floor is flat, and there’s even a hidden compartment under it for valuables.

One small but clever feature? The center console has a sliding cover that reveals two wireless charging pads. It’s a simple touch, but it keeps the cabin tidy and makes it easy to charge two phones at once. The EV6 also has a “frunk” button on the key fob—handy when your hands are full.

Performance and Driving Dynamics: Power Meets Precision

Acceleration and Powertrain Options

The Kia EV6 comes in several powertrain configurations, but I tested the all-wheel-drive (AWD) GT-Line with 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque. Let’s just say: it’s fast. 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds—faster than a BMW X3 xDrive30i and plenty quick for merging onto highways. The instant torque of electric motors makes city driving a breeze, and passing slower cars on the highway feels effortless.

For those who don’t need AWD, the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) version offers 225 hp and a slightly longer range (more on that later). There’s also a high-performance GT model with 576 hp, but it’s not available in all markets yet. For most drivers, the standard AWD or RWD models strike the right balance of power and efficiency.

Handling and Ride Comfort

The EV6’s handling is where it really surprised me. It’s not a sports car, but it’s far from a slouch. The steering is precise, and the car feels planted at high speeds. The low center of gravity (thanks to the battery pack under the floor) helps it corner with confidence. On winding mountain roads, the EV6 felt stable and predictable, even when pushed a bit.

The ride quality is a mixed bag. The standard suspension is comfortable for daily driving, but on rough roads, it can feel a bit stiff. The GT-Line trim I tested had adaptive dampers, which helped smooth out bumps—but they’re not as refined as what you’d find in a Mercedes EQC or Tesla Model Y. Still, for most drivers, the ride is more than acceptable.

Regenerative Braking and One-Pedal Driving

The EV6 has adjustable regenerative braking, which I loved. You can toggle between levels using the paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. At its highest setting, it allows for true one-pedal driving—lift off the accelerator, and the car slows down significantly, even coming to a complete stop in traffic. It takes some getting used to, but once you master it, it makes city driving much more efficient.

A small tip: if you’re new to one-pedal driving, start with a lower regen setting and work your way up. It’s less jarring and helps you adapt to the car’s behavior. The EV6 also has an “i-Pedal” mode, which maximizes regen and is perfect for stop-and-go traffic.

Range, Charging, and Efficiency: The Real-World Test

EPA Range and Real-World Performance

The EV6’s range depends on the powertrain and wheel size. The RWD model with 19-inch wheels gets an EPA-estimated 310 miles—impressive for its class. The AWD version I tested has an EPA rating of 274 miles. In real-world driving, I averaged about 250 miles on a full charge, which is pretty close to the EPA number.

Range anxiety? Not really. On a 200-mile highway trip, I started with 95% charge and arrived with 35%—plenty of buffer. In city driving, I easily got 3.5 to 4 miles per kWh, which is efficient for an AWD EV. The EV6’s heat pump (standard on most trims) helps maintain range in colder weather by using waste heat to warm the cabin.

Charging Speed and Infrastructure

The EV6’s 800-volt architecture is a game-changer. It can charge from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes on a 350 kW DC fast charger—faster than most EVs on the road. I tested this at an Electrify America station, and it lived up to the claim. Even on a 50 kW charger, it took about 70 minutes to go from 10% to 80%. For comparison, a Tesla Model Y takes 30 minutes on a 250 kW Supercharger.

Home charging is straightforward. The EV6 comes with a 110V portable charger (Level 1), but I recommend upgrading to a 240V Level 2 charger (7.2 kW) for faster overnight charging. A full charge takes about 7-9 hours with a Level 2 charger, depending on the trim.

Energy Management and Efficiency Tips

The EV6’s infotainment system has a handy “Energy Consumption” screen that shows real-time and average efficiency. I found that using the car’s eco mode (which limits acceleration and climate control) improved my range by about 10%. Pre-conditioning the cabin while plugged in also helps—it uses grid power instead of battery power to heat or cool the car.

One tip: avoid using the “Boost” mode unless you need the extra power. It drains the battery faster and isn’t necessary for daily driving. The EV6’s “Smart” mode (which adjusts performance based on driving style) is a good middle ground.

Technology and Infotainment: A Connected Experience

Infotainment System and User Interface

The dual 12.3-inch curved display is the star of the EV6’s tech suite. The touchscreen is responsive, with sharp graphics and intuitive menus. The system runs Kia’s latest UVO software, which is a big improvement over previous versions. It’s not as slick as Tesla’s interface, but it’s close—and it’s getting better with over-the-air updates.

The EV6 has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which is a huge plus. I’ve had issues with wired connections in other EVs, so this was a relief. The built-in navigation is accurate, and it can factor in charging stops when planning long trips. The voice assistant (activated by saying “Hey Kia”) works well for basic commands like “find a charging station” or “set the temperature to 72.”

Driver Assistance and Safety Features

The EV6 comes loaded with driver-assistance tech. Standard features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The higher trims add Highway Driving Assist (HDA), which combines adaptive cruise and lane-centering for semi-autonomous highway driving. It works well, but it’s not a hands-free system like Tesla’s Full Self-Driving.

One standout feature is the Remote Smart Parking Assist. It lets you park the EV6 from outside the car using the key fob—perfect for tight parking spots. I tested it in a narrow garage, and it worked flawlessly. The EV6 also has a 360-degree camera system with a “bird’s-eye view,” which makes parking and maneuvering in tight spaces a breeze.

Connectivity and Over-the-Air Updates

The EV6 has 5G connectivity (in some markets), which enables faster software updates and real-time traffic data. Kia promises over-the-air updates for the infotainment and driver-assistance systems, which means the car can improve over time. So far, updates have been minor—bug fixes and UI tweaks—but it’s a step in the right direction.

The Kia Connect app lets you monitor charging, lock/unlock the car, and pre-condition the cabin from your phone. It’s not as feature-rich as Tesla’s app, but it covers the basics and works reliably.

Pricing, Trim Levels, and Value for Money

Trim Levels and What They Offer

The Kia EV6 is available in four trims: Light, Wind, GT-Line, and GT. The base Light trim starts at $42,600 (before incentives) and includes most of the essentials: 19-inch wheels, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and basic driver-assistance features. It’s a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers.

The Wind trim ($48,700) adds AWD, a heat pump, and a power liftgate. The GT-Line ($52,900) is the sweet spot, with 20-inch wheels, adaptive dampers, and premium interior materials. The GT ($61,600) is the performance-focused model, with 576 hp and a sport-tuned suspension—but it’s not available everywhere.

Cost of Ownership and Incentives

The EV6 is eligible for a $7,500 federal tax credit in the U.S., which brings the starting price down to $35,100. Some states offer additional incentives, like rebates or HOV lane access. Maintenance costs are low—no oil changes, spark plugs, or transmission fluid to worry about. Kia also includes a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty on the battery and powertrain, which is one of the best in the industry.

Charging costs depend on your electricity rate, but on average, it costs about $10-15 to fully charge the EV6 at home. Public fast charging is more expensive—around $20-30 for an 80% charge—but it’s still cheaper than filling up a gas car.

Is the EV6 Worth It?

The EV6 competes with the Tesla Model Y, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Hyundai Ioniq 5. It’s not the cheapest, but it offers a compelling mix of style, performance, and tech. The fast charging, long range, and premium interior make it a strong contender in the mid-size EV SUV segment.

For families, the EV6 is a great choice—it’s spacious, safe, and practical. For tech enthusiasts, the 800-volt architecture and over-the-air updates are big selling points. And for anyone who values design, the EV6’s sleek looks are hard to beat.

Final Thoughts: The EV6 Is a Winner—With a Few Quirks

After a week with the Kia EV6, I came away impressed. It’s not perfect—the ride can be stiff, and the infotainment system isn’t quite as polished as Tesla’s—but it’s close. The fast charging, long range, and premium interior make it a standout in a crowded market.

The EV6 proves that Kia is serious about electric vehicles. It’s not just a compliance car; it’s a statement. And for anyone looking to make the switch to electric, the EV6 is a compelling option. It’s stylish, practical, and packed with tech—all without breaking the bank (especially with incentives).

If you’re in the market for an EV, do yourself a favor and test drive the EV6. It might just surprise you.

Kia EV6 Specifications at a Glance

Feature	RWD Standard Range	RWD Long Range	AWD Long Range	GT
Power	167 hp	225 hp	320 hp	576 hp
Torque	258 lb-ft	258 lb-ft	446 lb-ft	545 lb-ft
0-60 mph	8.0 sec	7.2 sec	5.1 sec	3.5 sec
Range (EPA)	232 miles	310 miles	274 miles	206 miles
Fast Charging (10-80%)	35 min (50 kW)	18 min (350 kW)	18 min (350 kW)	18 min (350 kW)
Starting Price	$42,600	$45,900	$52,900	$61,600

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the standout features of the new Kia electric car EV6?

The Kia EV6 boasts a sleek design, ultra-fast charging (10-80% in 18 minutes), and an advanced dual-motor AWD system. It also offers a spacious, tech-packed interior with a curved panoramic display and sustainable materials.

How does the Kia EV6’s performance compare to other electric vehicles?

The EV6 delivers impressive acceleration (0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds for GT models) and a smooth, quiet ride thanks to its dedicated E-GMP platform. Its long-range (up to 310 miles) and efficient heat pump system give it an edge in real-world usability.

Is the Kia EV6 suitable for long-distance travel?

Yes, the new Kia electric car EV6 excels on road trips with 350kW DC fast charging and a range of up to 310 miles. Its navigation system also optimizes routes to include charging stops, reducing downtime.

What is the range of the Kia EV6 on a full charge?

The EV6 offers up to 310 miles on a single charge for rear-wheel-drive models (Wind and GT-Line trims). All-wheel-drive variants have a slightly lower range of around 274-282 miles, depending on configuration.

Does the Kia EV6 support vehicle-to-load (V2L) charging?

Yes, the EV6 features V2L technology, allowing you to power external devices or appliances using the car’s battery. This adds versatility for camping, emergencies, or outdoor events.

How safe is the new Kia EV6?

The EV6 earns top safety ratings with standard driver aids like Highway Driving Assist 2, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision avoidance. Its rigid battery structure and advanced airbag system further enhance occupant protection.